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A devastating fire engulfed a private bank in Karachi’s upscale neighborhood of Gulistan Johar, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake. According to the Fire Brigade officials, a team was dispatched to the scene immediately, while DSP Asghar Ali Shah confirmed that five security personnel and eight civilians were injured in the blast.
In a bid to mitigate the crisis, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to take precautionary measures regarding the use of petroleum products. Sources suggest that schools and academic institutions are being advised to adopt a hybrid learning system, while public transportation is being encouraged, and the operating hours of the Orange Line, Metro Bus service are being extended.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the committee to present actionable recommendations within the next 48 hours, ensuring that the burden on the public is minimized and public relief takes precedence.
In a press statement, the University of Karachi announced that it would be observing a semester break from March 16, citing the worsening security situation. The university’s Rector, Tahir Ashrafi, condemned the US and Israeli aggression against Iran.
Meanwhile, a meeting was convened at the Karachi University to discuss the security situation arising from the Iranian drone and missile attacks. Sources claim that the effects of the war are beginning to impact the country’s oil supply, with Swabi Northern’s system being affected.
Suhail Bashir Tarar, a senior official, stated that the Relief and Welfare Organizations are providing aid to the affected public, with over 70% of the ration cards being used at the markets.
The Punjab government has assured the public that there is a sufficient stock of petroleum products available in the province, urging people not to panic. PPP leader Raja Pervez Ashraf declared that the party would not support the price hike of petrol to Rs 55 per liter.
In a separate development, Judge Amjad Ali Shah sentenced 47 advertising offenders to 10, 10 years of imprisonment, and a fine of Rs 5 lakh each. The deceased terrorist was involved in multiple terrorist activities and was a wanted suspect.
The PIAC road leading from Quaid’s city to the Karachi University has been reopened for small traffic. The city is expected to experience clear skies and dry weather over the next 24 hours.
In a response to the US-Israeli aggression, the Iranian military stated that it would not target countries that refuse to provide airbases for US operations against Iran. Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz warned the Lebanese government to comply with Israel’s demands before facing further action.
The UAE Ministry of Defense has announced that its defense system has successfully intercepted 15 ballistic missiles and 119 drones on the same day. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has led to a surge in demand for gold, with UAE gold traders forced to sell the precious metal at a subsidized rate.
